Seth Busching

The meeting included the recognition of the Rye High School varsity hockey team as New York State Champions, featuring comments from an assemblyman and a deputy mayor. The superintendent provided updates on community budget discussions, recent fundraising successes by the Rye Fund for Education, and construction progress at local schools. The board conducted a detailed presentation and discussion regarding the proposed 2026-2027 budget, covering topics such as staffing adjustments for social workers and STEM teachers, academic team support, facility upgrades including Wi-Fi and security cameras, and gymnasium roof repairs.

The meeting featured a superintendent's report covering district goals, professional learning on social-emotional education, and construction updates for Midland and Osborne schools. Notable achievements were highlighted, including the state championship victory of the Rye hockey team and musical performances by students. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to a budget presentation focused on athletics, which discussed strategic improvements in communication, community engagement, safety, and equipment lifecycle management. Key proposals included adopting the Final Forms platform for streamlined registration and communication, creating a student-led athletic newsletter, and conducting facility safety and protocol reviews.

The meeting featured the recognition of students with Rye Recognition of Excellence Awards, specifically celebrating the Rye High School varsity football team and their undefeated championship season. The superintendent provided a construction update on roof completions at Midland and Osborne schools, ongoing renovations at the performing arts center, and initial planning for the 2026-2027 school budget. Furthermore, a presentation was given on the critical thinking curriculum for grades K through 5, highlighting the new STEM program and student-led investigations and design projects.

The meeting featured a report from the superintendent regarding recovery efforts following a recent snowstorm and updates on the proposed state budget, including the new mandate for full-day pre-kindergarten. Discussion centered on the superintendent's entry plan, which focuses on student-centered teaching and learning, operational and financial sustainability, and governance and community relations. Key initiatives discussed included the implementation of the IB program, the use of AI to enhance critical thinking, the design of authentic project-based learning, and the development of long-term facilities and financial plans.

The meeting included a report from the superintendent detailing construction progress at the Midland and Osborne schools, funding secured for the local mental health clinic, and recognition of student and staff athletic achievements. The Board also held a presentation and discussion regarding the school climate and culture survey results, the social-emotional learning committee updates, and the implementation of restorative practices to address school conflicts. Additionally, the Board discussed upcoming focus groups, the 'IWish' campaign to support student belonging, and steps toward achieving 'No Place for Hate' school designation.